The ordinance allows developers to meet street tree planting requirements by paying a fee or providing alternative landscaping, exempts accessory dwelling units from these requirements, and streamlines the process for tree removals by City departments. It also updates reporting requirements for in lieu fees and creates a separate account for these fees within the Adopt-A-Tree Fund.
Ordinance amending the Public Works Code to allow development projects to satisfy street tree planting requirements through payment of an in lieu fee or providing alternative landscaping; exempt accessory dwelling units from street tree planting requirements; eliminate appeals to the Board of Appeals and the Director of the Department of Public Works for hazardous tree removals undertaken by City departments and commissions; amending the Administrative Code to specify a separate account within the Adopt-A-Tree Fund to receive in lieu fees for street tree requirements; amending the Planning Code to update street tree applicability requirements; amending the Business and Tax Regulations Code to prescribe timeframes for the hearing and decision on appeals of certain street tree removals to the Board of Appeals; affirming the Planning Department’s determination under the California Environmental Quality Act; making findings of consistency with the General Plan, and the eight priority policies of Planning Code, Section 101.1; and making public necessity, convenience, and welfare findings under Planning Code, Section 302.
How it got here
The legislation originated from a need to update San Francisco's street tree planting requirements and streamline the development process.
Mayor Lurie introduced an ordinance to amend the Public Works, Administrative, and Planning Codes regarding street trees.
The Board of Supervisors referred the ordinance to the Planning Department for review and response.
The Planning Department provided a response regarding the ordinance's compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
The Planning Commission held a public hearing and adopted a recommendation for approval with modifications to the ordinance.
The Planning Commission's final response regarding the ordinance was received, affirming its consistency with the General Plan.
Reconstructed from attached documents & the official record